Yellowstone Boys & Girls Ranch & Youth Dynamics Join Forces
This past September, Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) and Youth Dynamics, Inc. (YDI), two of Montana’s largest children’s behavioral health providers, announced they were coming together to better address the growing mental health needs of kids and their families.
With a vision to create a seamless, comprehensive support network for children, the union harnesses over 100 years of shared expertise. Continuing as Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, now nearly 800 caring people are providing mental health services to more than 4,000 youth annually across the state of Montana.
The newly expanded YBGR offers a full continuum of children’s behavioral health care in Montana, bringing everything from community-based services and in-school
support to Therapeutic Group Homes and the Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) under one umbrella.
Through this partnership, YBGR has enhanced its capacity to deliver efficient, timely care – ensuring better outcomes for kids by providing the right service, at the right time, at the right level of care.
Consider the story of 13-year-old Jason, who had faced significant challenges stemming from early trauma. Initially receiving treatment at the Ranch in the PRTF in Billings, Jason was discharged to a Youth Dynamics Therapeutic Group Home. Soon after, his mental health symptoms and
Continued on page 5
Together, YBGR and YDI have set a new standard for behavioral health in Montana.
Mike Chavers, YBGR CEO, and Dennis Sulser, former YDI CEO, at the ribbon tying ceremony in September at YBGR’s Stephen Paul Healing Plaza.
Jason with YBGR staff Skyler Carroll.
Many of our donors and friends know the Lord called Jim Soft home on October 29, 2024, following a heart attack suffered while at home. Jim was larger than life, and his unexpected passing is still difficult to comprehend.
Jim was a cherished and influential member of the Yellowstone family for an incredible 52 years. His journey with the Ranch began humbly, as he often fondly recalled “bucking bales,” and evolved into a lifelong commitment to advancing its mission. Jim’s leadership as President of Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation from 2002 to 2012 set a standard of excellence and vision. Even after stepping down to fulfill the role of President Emeritus, Jim continued to guide donors in planned giving, a passion he had nurtured since 1972.
Jim’s dedication was matched by his expertise. As a Certified Financial Planner® with a Master of Science degree in financial and estate planning, Jim’s knowledge was both deep and practical. He was highly regarded regionally and nationally for his expertise in charitable gift planning, and he was always quick and generous in sharing his command of the tax code with others. One of Jim’s peers may have said it best when he shared with us his condolences at Jim’s passing: “What I will miss most, however, is his availability and the way he made time for me. Whether it was a phone call or an email, Jim responded as if I were the only person he needed to attend to, and he did so with patience, kindness and understanding.” We know countless others would echo that same sentiment.
Jim leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Linda, their two children Max Soft and Brook (Larry) White, brother
Loren (Janice) Soft, and grandchildren EJ, Konnor and Aubree. He also leaves countless friends, co-workers, professional advisors and donors, all of whom benefitted richly from their relationships with Jim.
It goes without saying that our collective loss of Jim leaves a gaping void in the lives of his family, friends, co-workers and the non-profit world, both locally and nationally. Because of Jim’s foresight and passion for sharing his charitable planned giving expertise, we stand ready at Yellowstone Foundation to continue his vision and to honor his legacy. Jim would expect nothing less of us.
Jim’s family continues to support his legacy at Yellowstone Foundation by accepting memorials to the Jim and Linda Soft Spiritual Life Endowment Fund at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation. Memorial gifts may be sent to Yellowstone Foundation, 2050 Overland Ave., Billings, MT 59102 or by donating online at YellowstoneFoundation.org. Many thanks to those who have already given.
Jim with donors Mel and Kay Johnson from Circle, MT.
Winter at YBGR: A Season of Growth and Connection
Winter at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) brings a unique serenity. Snow blankets the fields, and frosty mornings set a peaceful tone. Though the air is cold, the Ranch remains a place of warmth, hope, and growth.
For nearly seven decades, YBGR has prepared youth for life. Our mission is reflected in every season, but winter offers a special time for introspection and connection. Therapy sessions take on a new depth in the crisp, quiet surroundings. Whether gathered indoors or walking through the snow, our youth find their voices and navigate challenges.
This season also builds resilience. Feeding cattle in the snow fosters responsibility, while sledding down Chapel Hill reminds kids to embrace joy. Every moment, big or small, is an opportunity to learn and grow and each day reflects the core values that guide us: Faith, Integrity, Relationship, and Stewardship.
We recognize that winter can be difficult for those struggling with mental health. That’s why our team works tirelessly to create a supportive, structured environment where every child feels safe and valued.
In Memory of Jim Soft
Alice Lee Lund Foundation
American Council on Gift Annuities
Anonymous
Billings Catholic School Foundation
Gary and Holly Adams
Kurt and Sandra Alme
Karen & Jerry Andre
Donna & Rick Beitel
Bruce & Donna Bekkedahl
Mary Beth & Ronald Billstein
Butch & Shannon Bratsky
Vernon & Janet Brost
Steve & Kelly Bruggeman
Charlene Buettner
Mike & Michelle Chavers
Bryan & Janet Cook
Clay & Lynne Cummins
Britt & Cynthia Davis
Shelley Dolan
Terry Dorow
John Eastman
Jo Ann Eder
Paul & Patty Edwards
Paul & Sandra Fasting
Larry & Judith Ginnaty
Marsha Goetting
Becky Grey
Regina & Tyler Griemsman
Stephen & Vicki Handley
Daniel & Sharon Hansen
Marvin & Darlene Hartze
Gary & Kathryn Hickle
Phillip & Sara Hofer
Greg & Keene Howard
Jessi Howard
Bill & Dale Hritsco
A kind word, a smile, or a high-five can make a difference in a child’s journey toward healing.
As I reflect on this season, I’m inspired by the resilience of our youth and the dedication of our staff. Facing challenges takes courage, and guiding others requires heart.
To our supporters: thank you for your generosity. Your partnership makes our work possible. As we enter the new year, we remain committed to equipping our youth with the tools they need to succeed.
Youth sledding on the Chapel hill.
Winter at YBGR is more than a season – it’s a time of transformation. With every snowy sunrise, we are reminded of each child’s incredible potential. Together, we are fostering hope, healing, and confidence for the future.
George & Estelle Hritsco
Jeff & Stephanie Hritsco
Sandra & Randy Huston
Lawrence & Jerre Hutchins
Lee & Jeanne Judson
Allan & Patricia Karell
Jerry & Laura Kinsella
Jim & Marilyn Kohles
Steve & Sherry Leicht
Joyce Lorenz
Barbara L. Lowe
Sanda McCauley
Mike & Sharon Muller
Greg & Kate Murphy
Fred & Joan Nelson
North Harbor Wealth
Management
Derek & Kristi Oaks
Heather & David Ohs
David & Karen Pals
Ronald Paul & Kathryn Holdener
Dean Paul
Steve Pewitt
Jay & Barbara Prichard
Crystal Rieker
Peggy Robbie Layne & Myrna Rolandson
Loren & Janice Soft
Linda Soft
Sue & Harry Staley
Mac & Kathleen Stevens
Theo & Stephen Strutz
John & Selene M. Thomas
Mark & Karen Thomas
Eldon & Elaine Unrau
Robert & Sandra Venneman
Jerry & Arthel Vincent
Karen Walmsley
Whitney Weimer
Scott Wilm
Sandy Wong
Rhonda Wyland
Philip & Susan Zietlow
Well done, good and faithful servant. Matthew 25:21
The holiday season at YBGR is a time of warmth, joy, and transformation for the youth. With the support of donors, volunteers, and staff, Christmas at YBGR becomes a celebration of love and hope, reminding these children that they are worthy of love and belonging.
Festive Activities and Annual Traditions
This year, the Christmas season was filled with meaningful moments and exciting activities:
• Annual Kohl’s Shopping Trip: Thanks to the Foundation’s Secret Santas, youth shopped for clothing and essentials, many experiencing their first time selecting their own new clothes.
• Santa in the Schools: Yellowstone Academy students received art kits from the Downtown Exchange Club.
• Therapeutic Group Homes: Youth decorated Christmas trees, built gingerbread castles, and enjoyed caroling, holiday movies, and festive meals.
• Moss Mansion Tree Decorating: PRTF youth from Fortin East Lodge competed in this annual competition, this year’s theme being “A Floral Christmas.”
Community Generosity Across Montana
The community’s support shone brightly this year:
• Giving Trees: Gifts were provided through Giving Tree programs sponsored by local businesses Rimrock Mall, Pierce RV & Marine Supercenter, Pierce Flooring & Cabinet Design Center, Carpet Barn and Thistle & Thread.
• Operation Christmas Caring: In Livingston, local law enforcement and community partners delivered gifts to over 250 children, fostering positive connections.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who made this possible with a special thanks to:
Town Pump Charitable Foundation
Donna Stone
Garnet & Jeannine Keefer
The sound of kids tearing into presents echoed across the campus on Christmas morning.
After the Kohls shopping trip, volunteers ensure all the kids’ presents are beautifully wrapped.
YBGR staff and board members gear up to serve brunch on Christmas Eve.
Special Events
• Christmas Eve Brunch & Chapel Service: YBGR staff and board members helped prepare and serve a special brunch in the Dining Hall which was followed by a Christmas Eve service featuring scripture readings and carols, sharing the story of Christ’s birth.
• New Year’s Eve Pizza Party: Since 2008, this tradition has capped off the season with pizza, movies, and celebration, thanks to a long-time donor.
• Movies with Michael: YBGR’s CFO, Michael Chandler, hosted a holiday movie night in the chapel, complete with treats and laughter.
From festive decorations to heartfelt gifts and cherished traditions, Christmas at YBGR provided a transformative experience for youth who often face challenges during the holidays. This season, they felt the love and care of a community dedicated to bringing light into their lives.
Yellowstone Boys & Girls Ranch & Youth Dynamics Join Forces
Continued from page 1 the behaviors stemming from them began to escalate, leading him to once again need the structured care that the Ranch’s residential treatment program provides.
Because Youth Dynamics and Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch had recently joined to become one organization, YBGR was able to quickly transition Jason back to care at the Ranch, where he received the targeted support necessary to stabilize and continue his healing journey.
Whether stepping down into a group home, back home into the community, or up to the more structured environment of the residential treatment program, this new union reinforces timely treatment. It helps to ensure that no child falls through the cracks.
Together, YBGR and YDI have set a new standard for behavioral health in Montana, ensuring every child like Jason has the support they need – when they need it – to be prepared for a brighter future.
Chaplain John Boeder leads the singing of a classic Christmas hymn.
Santa made an appearance at Christmas Eve brunch, to the absolute delight of the kids.
Youth help decorate the Moss Mansion tree.
A Brave Voice and a Powerful Message: MMIP Awareness at YBGR
As part of Native American Heritage Month in November, Josie and Charlene “Charli” Sleeper, a Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons advocate and overnight mental health worker, came together to launch a first-of-its-kind MMIP prevention program for all the youth that are served on the YBGR Billings Campus. The event took place in the Robbie Chapel the week before Thanksgiving.
The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) Movement seeks to raise awareness about the alarming rates of homicide and missing persons cases among Indigenous communities in the United States. For Charlene, the awareness has transitioned into MMIP prevention work.
“I wove in the values of YBGR and tried to show the youth that who we are and what we teach them can help them when they leave here,” said Charlene. “Missing and murdered people happen in every culture, in every country around the world. That is why it was so important to me that we include all the youth in the Day School and Residential Program and not focus only on our Indigenous youth. Many of the youth that we serve are more vulnerable to these types of things. They live in poverty, are exposed to substance use, and have experienced so much trauma.”
The program was offered through two different sessions. The first was for the day school youth, and the second was for the residential youth. During the residential youths’ program, one brave young woman stood up and put a very real face to the movement for the youth in attendance. Her sister was an MMIP victim and is one of Montana’s high-profile MMIP cases. Her family is still searching for answers to what happened to her sister and searching for justice. “It was so brave for Karlee to stand up and share her story with the room and help make that connection for these kids that it can happen. These aren’t just stories or urban legends. These things happen to real people in our neighborhoods and communities,” said Josie Brady.
“We still do not have answers, and we may never get them. I wish that no family ever goes through this. My sister is gone, and we do not know why and never got a chance to say goodbye,” said Karlee, through tears. She was surrounded by her peers and staff offering words of encouragement, gratitude, and support. It was a touching and powerful ending to a wonderful presentation.
In the weeks that followed, staff heard a lot of the youth talking about the presentation and so many kids making statements about how lucky they have been to not have been a victim, how they regretted past choices, and are so glad nothing bad happened to them when they made poor choices, putting themselves at risk. “It was eye-opening to a lot of the kids just how close they may have come to being a statistic and not being here. I hope that they take this information to heart and share it with others so no one else is left wondering what happened to their family members and never getting the answers,” said Therapist Intern and Program Manager Skyler Carroll.
For more information about the MMIP movement please visit: bia.gov/service/mmu (Missing and Murdered Indigenous People –Indian Affairs)
fbi.gov/investigate/violent-crime/indian-country-crime (Indian Country Crime – FBI)
dojmt.gov/mmip-home/ (Montana Missing Indigenous Persons Task Force – Montana Department of Justice)
Celebrating Native American Heritage Month
November is Native American Heritage Month, and Josie Brady, Native American Services Coordinator at YBGR, with input from the Native American youth served at YBGR planned a fun-filled, culturally educational month for all residential youth on the main campus as well as the youth in the Yellowstone Academy Day School Program.
They kicked off the month with Spirit Days. Every Friday of the month, youth, regardless of their background, were encouraged to participate in different culturally relevant dress-up days. In honor of Native American Olympian Jim Thorpe who won two Gold medals in the 1912 Olympics, youth were encouraged to wear mismatched socks or shoes on “Jim Thorpe Day.” Jim’s shoes were stolen before his races, but he found a pair of mismatched shoes in a trashcan which he wore.
Youth were encouraged to “Rock Your Braids” or other traditional Indigenous hairstyles. Two days were dedicated to raising awareness for Indigenous issues by wearing orange to honor those lost at Indigenous residential boarding schools and wearing red to honor Missing & Murdered Indigenous People.
A young Native American woman with the MMIP symbol of a red handprint over the mouth.
Charli Sleeper (above), an MMIP advocate, speaking at the YBGR event in the Robbie Chapel.
Rock Your Braids – Youth were invited to “Rock Your Braids” for one of the Spirit Days.
Memorial Listings
KAYLA MAE ASHLEY
Joe & Peg Broesder
Lanell & Kelly Ashley
EDDY BERRY
Beth Conroy
SHIRLEY BERTELSEN
Lee & Helen Harris
CHARLOTTE BETTRIDGE
Sharlene Inglis
BUD BORLAUG
Fern Wolery
SONJA BOWEN
William Bowen
THOMAS BROSSART
Bruce Wendt & Claire Oakley
ELAINE BROWN
Louis Brown
MARIE CLARK
Marie’s Line-Dance Buddies – Linda, Shari, Pam, Jackie, Sherry, Barb, Jane, Rose, Lenny, Jane, Judy, Rita
MACK & JUDY COLE
Margaret Lopez
LEW COOKSEY
Carol Hultberg
FERNANDO CUADRA
Debra Cuadra
BILL DAFOE
DALTON DAHLKE
By naming Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation in your will, you can guarantee that your legacy of caring for troubled and abused children will continue for generations to come.
FIXED AMOUNT: I give the sum of $ to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation.
SPECIFIC PROPERTY: I give my to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation.
PERCENTAGE OF REMAINDER: I give % of the remainder of my estate to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation.
CONTINGENCY: In the event does not survive me, I give to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation.
These samples are suggestions only. Legal documents should always be prepared by your attorney.
Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation’s legal address is 2050 Overland Avenue, P.O. Box 80807, Billings, Montana 59108. Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization. Gifts are tax deductible.
A Home for Ryan
Memorial and Honor Gifts Form
In 2024, over 390,000 children in the U.S. were in foster care, many carrying the weight of trauma and mental health challenges. For children diagnosed as Severely Emotionally Disturbed (SED), finding stability – let alone a loving, permanent home – can feel out of reach.
Therapeutic Foster Care is changing that by equipping foster parents with the training, resources, and unwavering support they need to make a lasting difference. Jordan is one of those parents. He knew he had more to give – a home, the space, and most importantly, the heart to help a child in need.
In the spring of 2023, Jordan became a licensed foster parent. Soon after, he welcomed his first placement, five-year-old Ryan. From the start, their bond was undeniable. Not only did they connect instantly, but Jordan has also made it a priority to do what is best for Ryan, like keeping his biological family in his life, ensuring his grandmother remains a steady presence.
Now six years old, Ryan has already faced more hardship than most experience in a lifetime. But just recently, he celebrated something extraordinary – his adoption by Jordan. With the love of his new father and the steadfast support of YBGR, Ryan is no longer just surviving – he’s thriving. He has found strength, hope, and the bright future every child deserves.
Join the Adopt-A-Lodge Program: Make a Difference
Building maintenance is a critical need at YBGR. The Adopt-A-Lodge program invites businesses or individuals to sponsor a building, whether on the Billings campus or any one of the offices in locations around the state, ensuring upkeep and improvements that go beyond YBGR’s annual budget. Sponsorship fees range from $2,500 to $5,000 annually, with a three-year commitment.
A big thank you to our current Adopt-a-Lodge sponsors:
Alpha Omega Disaster Restoration
Anderson, Hedge, Wagner, Keinitz, Zwemke & Assoc.
Charles M. Bair Family Trust
David Milkovich
First Interstate Bank
Hoiness Family Foundation
KE Construction
PacificSource Health Plans
Pacific Steel & Recycling
Pennmont Foundation
Sodexo
US Bank
Willy & Julie Johnson
If you or a business is interested in becoming an Adopt-A-Lodge sponsor, contact Abigail Uhrich at abigail@yellowstonefoundation.org.
Celebrating Milestones
In 2024, the Native American Services (NAS) program introduced a meaningful new tradition to honor the achievements of Native youth. Spearheaded by Josie Brady, Native American Services Coordinator, the tradition allows Native youth to leave their painted handprint on the NAS tipi upon successfully discharging from YBGR.
Each handprint represents a personal journey of healing, growth, and accomplishment. It’s a cultural cornerstone, representing strength and resilience along with traditions of Native communities. Since the tradition began in January, the tipi is proudly displaying the handprints of eighteen youth. Each handprint tells a unique story of triumph over challenges, with the tipi now a vibrant tapestry of hope and achievement, celebrating Native youth and the legacy they leave.
The NAS program integrates cultural traditions into therapeutic practices as well, offering Wellbriety Talking Circles, sweat lodges, drum circles, and teachings from the White Bison Organization’s Medicine Wheel and 12 Steps for Youth. These culturally responsive services help our youth reconnect with their heritage, build a sense of belonging, and embrace healthy paths forward.
YBGR Group Tours
Thinking about visiting Billings, MT this summer? Always wanted a tour of the Ranch campus? The Foundation will be doing group tours:
Tuesday, May 13
Friday, May 30
Tuesday, June 3
Friday, June 20
Tuesday, September 9
Friday, September 12 Private tours available upon request
and see the Ranch’s mission in action! Call 406-656-8772 or visit yellowstonefoundation.org to sign up for a tour.
Left to right: Kristi Farver Oaks (YBGRF), Abigail Uhrich (YBGRF), Robert Sipes (YBGR), Erin Kirschenmann (KEC), Rose Jutila (KEC), and Michelle Jutila (YBGR)
Conrad Fisher sets up for a drum circle with the kids.
Handprints line the bottom of the tipi of Native American youth who have successfully completed the program.
Governor and First Lady
Celebrate
Triumphs at YBGR
The week before the election in November, Governor Greg Gianforte took a break from the campaign trail to make a stop at YBGR’s Ranch campus. Governor Gianforte, the first lady, and staff took a tour of the campus and then met staff and former youth in the chapel for a panel discussion. Mental Health Worker Natalie Nickisch and HR Recruiter Jake Mullins are both former YBGR youth who came back as employees and were on hand to share their success stories. Director of PRTF Juletta Gilge and Therapist Lacey Jones were on hand along with Program Manager Skyler Carroll. All these dedicated staff shared their why and success stories of some of the youth they have worked with over the years.
The Governor and First Lady also shared an update with us on Ellie, whom we introduced you to in the Fall of 2021. Ellie was a former youth at YBGR that took advantage of the scholarship that is offered to all former youth wanting to pursue higher education. She studied nursing in Virginia and was in her junior year when she was featured in the Fall 2021 Wrangler. Ellie has now completed her program and is an RN. She is not only surviving but thriving. Thank you, Gianforte’s, for the visit and the success story!
Tom & Joan Scott Clinic Side-by-Side
Thanks to Roadarmel Construction and Basecamp, the clinic now has a new side-by-side to safely and quickly transport youth from west campus to east campus and back for appointments and emergencies. The side-byside can use the sidewalk under the 72nd Street West bridge, avoiding the necessity of crossing the ever-busier highway.
Left to right: Lacy Jones, Skyler Carroll, First Lady Susan Gianforte, Governor Greg Gianforte, Juletta Gilge, Natalie Nickisch, Jake Mullins, YBGR CEO Mike Chavers
YBGR CEO Mike Chavers visiting with the Gianforte’s in the Casper Education Center of Yellowstone Academy.
Director of Nursing Tra Williams and YBGR CEO Mike Chavers with the new side-by-side.
3rd Annual Yellowstone Chili Cookoff Raises
$38,742
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 3rd Annual Yellowstone Chili Cookoff on Thursday, September 28th, at the YBGR Bill & Anita Jones Equestrian Center! This year’s event raised an incredible $38,742 to support the mission of Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, helping children struggling with mental health challenges.
Over 275 attendees enjoyed chili prepared by twelve talented cooks. A heartfelt thank-you to our Platinum Sponsors –Faith Chapel and Anderson, Hedge, Wagner, Kienitz, Zwemke & Associates – as well as our many other community sponsors. Special thanks to the Hell Roaring Band for providing honky-tonk music that kept the evening lively.
Your support makes events like this possible, and your generosity directly benefits the youth at YBGR. Mark your calendars for this year’s event on September 25th from 5-8 pm at the YBGR Equestrian center for another evening of great chili and even greater impact!
Lewistown Deck Project Complete!
We are thrilled to share that the old deck at the YBGR Lewistown Office has been replaced with a brand new one. Thanks to the generous support of the Central Montana Foundation and private donors, the new deck is ready to be enjoyed by both clients and staff as a safe, welcoming outdoor space. The Lewistown Office also received a fresh coat of paint last fall as well, again, thanks to our generous donors.
The new deck at the YBGR Lewistown Office.
Success in the Flathead
Joe, a 16-year-old youth residing in rural northwest Montana, had been struggling academically for the past two years, failing most of his classes and facing challenges with anger management. Despite his guardians’ encouragement to pursue therapy or behavioral interventions, he had consistently declined.
He began to connect, however, with the YBGR Behavioral Specialist at school and received positive reinforcement from peers. It was suggested he join CBPRS, a youth mentoring program, and he did.
After six months in the program, he is passing all his classes and has significantly reduced his behavioral referrals to the principal. He has also developed a greater sense of self-confidence. Joe continues to focus on managing his anger, fostering trusting relationships with classmates and achieving academic success.
Cookoff Winners (left to right): Amy Cooper with Dorothy’s Lodge (2nd Place), Skyler Carrol with Jessie Grant Lodge (1st Place), Pat Franscisco Thomas (People’s Choice), Willy Johnson (3rd Place)
For the first time at the cookoff, horse rides were offered to attendees –they were a big hit!